3. Irish Cottage (Founded 1960)
Photo Courtesy Michael Perlman
In Forest Hills, Irish Cottage at 108-07 72nd Avenue opened in 1960 and was run by the McNulty family. More than just a pub, the food was a draw, with QNS reporting in 2010 that the fare offered “Great Irish dishes done superbly.” The proprietor, Kathy McNulty died due to complications from COVID-19 in April. and her sons decided not to re-open.
Son Danny McNulty told the Sunnyside Post, “It’s very sad, we were one of the oldest family-run Irish bars in Queens.” It was one of the many locations that have found the takeout business unviable financially, and fear that occupancy restrictions in the future will also make the business difficult to operate sustainably.
Michael Perlman, Chair of the Rego-Forest Preservation Council us, “It is a sad chapter in Forest Hills and Rego Park history that these longtime community institutions that become part of New York City’s history and diverse fabric have shuttered due to the pandemic. These are the true places where memories are born, and they have offered much character and personalization for generations. I am hoping that I can find a party of interest who will preserve the ambiance and offer a similar menu.” Perlman says the wooden bar and operational fireplace is remaining in place.